Adversity can increasethe risk of obesity

Events in early childhood can affect howand why some people become overweight

WRITTEN BY DOUG HORNER

In the field of obesity research and
knowledge, Dr. Arya Sharma is a
constant presence. He’s in journal
articles, in online references (just
try Googling him), in media, and
at conferences and gatherings.

This past fall, he was at the annualmeetings of Diabetes Canada and theCanadian Society of Endocrinologyand Metabolism. Just another hecticfew days in the life of one of Canada’sforemost obesity experts.Sharma has a compelling message.“Most people, unfortunately, lookat obesity simply as a lifestyle issue,”Sharma says. “We know that lifestyle isnot very effective at treating obesity.”The Canadian Medical Association,American Medical Association andWorld Health Association have alldeclared obesity a chronic disease.Genetics, socioeconomic status,addictions, hormone regulation andtrauma can all influence our physiologyand relationship with food. In fact, oneof the largest investigations into thelong-term effects of childhood abuseand neglect was inspired by a discoveryat an obesity clinic.Dr. Vincent Felitti, head of Kaiser

Studies in Alberta have similar finding as studies in the United States that have found a strong link between obesity and adverse childhood experiences.